One factor in the Raptors' favor is the hiring Friday of Tim Leiweke to be president and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which owns the Raptors. Leiweke will take over at MLSE effective June 30.

Could Phil Jackson land in Toronto? (AP Photo)

Leiweke and Jackson are well-acquainted; Leiweke previously ran Anschutz Entertainment Group, which operates Staples Center, where Jackson led the Lakers to five NBA championships. ESPNLosAngeles.com also noted that Leiweke has a lengthy working relationship with Lakers VP Jeanie Buss, Jackson's fiancee.